Harry Potter Series: Ginny Weasley to Be Recast for Season 2
Filming will begin in the fall
Even before the first season of the new "Harry Potter" series has aired, there has already been the first major casting change. As reported by the industry magazine Deadline, actress Gracie Cochrane, who plays Ginny Weasley in the HBO production, will not be returning after Season 1. The role will therefore be recast.
The young actress and her family have now confirmed her departure in an official statement. According to the statement, Cochrane made the difficult decision to leave the series "due to unforeseen circumstances". Quote:
"Due to unforeseen circumstances Gracie has made the challenging decision to step away from her role as Ginny Weasley in the HBO Harry Potter series after season one. Her time as part of the Harry Potter world has been truly wonderful, and she is deeply grateful to Lucy Bevan and the entire production team for creating such an unforgettable experience. Gracie is very excited about the opportunities her future holds."
HBO had only recently commissioned a second season of the fantasy saga. Production on the new episodes is set to begin as early as this fall. The first season of the "Harry Potter" series will premiere on HBO Max in December 2026.
The Cast of the New Harry Potter Series
The cast is made up of both familiar and new faces. We can look forward to the new trio of Harry, Hermione, and Ron. The roles have been cast with Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter, Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger, and Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley. The three were selected from a staggering 32,000 applicants. Ahead of the start of filming on July 14, 2025, a first photo of McLaughlin in full Harry Potter regalia was released – including the classic Hogwarts school uniform, round glasses, and iconic scar.
There was much discussion surrounding the casting of Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape. The Slytherin House teacher is an absolute fan favorite, both in the books and in the films. For many, the character is inextricably linked to Alan Rickman's portrayal. Meanwhile, Janet McTeer will take on the role of Minerva McGonagall. The Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts and Head of Gryffindor House was played in the films by acting icon Maggie Smith.
Most of the Weasley family has also already been announced. The twins Fred and George will be played by Tristan and Gabriel Harland. Ruari Spooner will take on the role of Percy Weasley, while Gracie Cochrane will portray the youngest sister, Ginny. Their mother, Molly, will be portrayed by Katherine Parkinson.
The new faces of the Malfoys and Dursleys have also been announced. Lox Pratt takes on the role of young Draco Malfoy, while Johnny Flynn will play his father, Lucius. Among the Dursleys, Bel Powley will play the role of Harry's Aunt Petunia. Daniel Rigby plays Uncle Vernon, and Amos Kitson will be seen as Harry's spoiled cousin Dudley.
There's also already an official photo of "Shaun of the Dead" star Nick Frost as Hagrid. The gamekeeper at Hogwarts is one of Harry, Ron, and Hermione's closest confidants. Meanwhile, the first actor confirmed for the role was John Lithgow. The "Dexter" actor revealed in advance interviews that he would be playing the powerful headmaster of Hogwarts.
Also joining the cast is Rory Wilmot as the shy but loyal Neville Longbottom. Meanwhile, the famous wandmaker Ollivander is played by "Game of Thrones" actor Anton Lesser. The role of Quirinus Quirrell is taken on by newcomer Luke Thallon. Also joining the cast are Paul Whitehouse as caretaker Argus Filch, Bertie Carvel as Minister of Magic Cornelius Fudge, and "Sherlock" actress Louise Brealey as Madam Hooch.
There's also a little surprise in the cast: one of the film's original actors is actually returning to his familiar role! That actor is Warwick Davis, who will once again be seen as Professor Flitwick. The casting for Lord Voldemort remains unknown.
